PIC16LC57C-04/P - 4MHz 8-bit CMOS MCU, 3KB EPROM, 20 I/O | Microchip
MPN: PIC16LC57C-04/P ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $5.42 | $5.42 |
| 10 | $4.78 | $47.80 |
| 100 | $4.15 | $415.00 |
| 500 | $3.62 | $1,810.00 |
| 1,000 | $3.18 | $3,180.00 |
PIC16LC57C-04/P Overview
A microcontroller (MCU) is a single-chip computer that contains a CPU core, program memory, working RAM, and I/O peripherals. The PIC16C5X family that PIC16LC57C belongs to uses a RISC architecture with only 33 single-word/single-cycle instructions, achieving 2:1 code compression over comparable 8-bit CISC microcontrollers. This part sits in the hierarchy: microcontroller -> 8-bit MCU -> PIC16 family -> baseline-class PIC16C5X, representing the entry tier of the PIC microcontroller ecosystem before the enhanced PIC16F and PIC18 generations.
Key features include 4 MHz maximum clock frequency, 12-bit-wide instruction word, 8-level hardware stack, 8-bit timer/counter with 8-bit prescaler, power-on reset, watchdog timer with dedicated on-chip RC oscillator, and programmable code protection. The windowed CERDIP package enables UV erasure for engineering development and prototype iteration. Power-saving SLEEP mode reduces quiescent current to microampere levels, ideal for battery-powered and energy-harvesting applications.
The device uses a Harvard architecture with separate program and data buses, two 8-bit bidirectional I/O ports (RA/RB), and additional I/O pins. Its RISC design means most instructions execute in a single instruction cycle (4 clock periods), yielding sustained throughput of approximately 1 MIPS at 4 MHz. The on-chip watchdog timer with its own RC oscillator prevents code lockup in unattended or remote installations.
Typical applications include appliance controls, security and access systems, automotive body electronics (non-safety), industrial process controllers, smart sensor nodes, and battery-powered instrument controllers. The 20 I/O pins comfortably drive keypads, LED displays, and low-speed serial communication links.
When designing with this part, account for the windowed CERDIP footprint - it is intended for prototype use; production designs should migrate to the OTP or code-protected variants in plastic packages. Always place a 0.1uF decoupling capacitor adjacent to VDD with a short ground return.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in PIC16 family alternatives, and practical design considerations not consolidated on any single manufacturer datasheet or distributor listing.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16LC57C-04/P — same package, pin-to-pin compatible. Different-package parts requiring PCB rework are excluded.
Variants in this series
Same-series models that are drop-in compatible with PIC16LC57C-04/P (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Package, Timers, Family, Program Memory Type, Watchdog Timer.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC16C57C-04/P
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16LC57C-04I/P
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$2.45 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16LC57C-04I/SP
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.39 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16LC57C-04/SP
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$2.05 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C57C-04I/P
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$2.05 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16F57-I/P
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.18 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16LC57C-04/P Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core Architecture | 8-bit PIC RISC |
| Family | PIC16C5X (baseline) |
| Maximum Clock Frequency | 4 MHz |
| Program Memory Type | EPROM (OTP, UV-erasable in windowed CERDIP) |
| Program Memory Size | 3 KB (2K x 12) |
| RAM Size | 72 bytes |
| Number of I/O Pins | 20 |
| Supply Voltage Range | 3 V to 6.25 V |
| Instruction Set Width | 12-bit |
| Instruction Set Size | 33 instructions |
| Timers | 1 x 8-bit timer/counter with 8-bit prescaler |
| Watchdog Timer | Yes, with dedicated on-chip RC oscillator |
| Power-On Reset | Yes |
| Power-Saving Mode | SLEEP mode (low quiescent current) |
| Code Protection | Programmable code protection supported |
| Package Type | 28-pin Windowed CERDIP (P) |
| Mounting Type | Through-Hole |
| Operating Temperature Range | 0 C to +70 C (commercial) |
PIC16LC57C-04/P Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | RA2 — Bidirectional I/O port A bit 2 |
| Pin 2 | RA3 — Bidirectional I/O port A bit 3 |
| Pin 3 | RA4/T0CKI — Bidirectional I/O / Timer0 clock input |
| Pin 4 | MCLR — Master Clear reset input (active low) |
| Pin 5 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 6 | RB0/INT — Bidirectional I/O port B bit 0 / external interrupt |
| Pin 7 | RB1 — Bidirectional I/O port B bit 1 |
| Pin 8 | RB2 — Bidirectional I/O port B bit 2 |
| Pin 9 | RB3 — Bidirectional I/O port B bit 3 |
| Pin 10 | RB4 — Bidirectional I/O port B bit 4 |
| Pin 11 | RB5 — Bidirectional I/O port B bit 5 |
| Pin 12 | RB6 — Bidirectional I/O port B bit 6 |
| Pin 13 | RB7 — Bidirectional I/O port B bit 7 |
| Pin 14 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 15 | OSC1/CLKIN — Crystal oscillator input / external clock in |
| Pin 16 | OSC2/CLKOUT — Crystal oscillator output / clock out |
| Pin 17 | RC0 — Bidirectional I/O port C bit 0 |
| Pin 18 | RC1 — Bidirectional I/O port C bit 1 |
| Pin 19 | RC2 — Bidirectional I/O port C bit 2 |
| Pin 20 | RC3 — Bidirectional I/O port C bit 3 |
| Pin 21 | RC4 — Bidirectional I/O port C bit 4 |
| Pin 22 | RC5 — Bidirectional I/O port C bit 5 |
| Pin 23 | RC6 — Bidirectional I/O port C bit 6 |
| Pin 24 | RC7 — Bidirectional I/O port C bit 7 |
| Pin 25 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 26 | VDD — Positive supply voltage |
| Pin 27 | RA0 — Bidirectional I/O port A bit 0 |
| Pin 28 | RA1 — Bidirectional I/O port A bit 1 |
Typical Applications
PIC16LC57C-04/P is suitable for 7 applications: Appliance Control Panels, Security and Access Control Systems, Industrial Process Controllers, Battery-Powered Smart Sensor Nodes, Automotive Body Electronics (Non-Safety), Test and Measurement Hand-Held Instruments, LED Lighting Controllers.
Appliance Control Panels
The PIC16LC57C-04/P fits appliance control panels because its 20 I/O pins can directly drive 7-segment LED displays, keypads, and relay drivers without external glue logic. The 3 KB EPROM comfortably holds appliance state-machine firmware including wash-cycle programs, timer logic, and fault detection routines. The 4 MHz clock provides responsive user-interface timing, while the LC process variant's low quiescent current in SLEEP mode reduces standby power consumption in always-on appliances like refrigerators and microwave ovens to meet energy-star requirements.
Recommended
Security and Access Control Systems
The PIC16LC57C-04/P suits security keypads, RFID readers, and access controllers because its 20 I/O lines scan 4x4 key matrices and drive indicator LEDs while one timer handles debounce and lockout timing. The on-chip watchdog timer with dedicated RC oscillator prevents code lockup in unattended installations, an essential reliability feature for security hardware. The 3 KB program memory accommodates keypad-scan, credential-validation, and alarm-tone-generation routines, and the LC process variant extends battery life in wireless door-sensor and PIR-detector nodes.
Recommended
Industrial Process Controllers
The PIC16LC57C-04/P is used in industrial process controllers, particularly small-loop PID controllers, temperature regulators, and pump controllers, where its 4 MHz clock and deterministic instruction timing support time-critical control loops. Its 20 I/O pins interface with thermocouples via op-amp front-ends, drive SSR outputs, and read 4-20 mA current loops through ADC. The wide 3 V to 6.25 V supply tolerance tolerates industrial 24 V bus systems stepped down through linear regulators, and the SLEEP mode cuts power during idle monitoring windows.
Recommended
Battery-Powered Smart Sensor Nodes
The PIC16LC57C-04/P is ideal for battery-powered smart sensor nodes such as remote environmental monitors, wireless HVAC sensors, and IoT edge devices where the LC process variant's low quiescent current and SLEEP mode extend battery life to months or years. The watchdog timer wakes the MCU periodically to sample sensors, transmit data, and return to SLEEP, with the entire duty cycle managed by the on-chip RC oscillator to avoid external component count. The 3 V minimum supply supports direct operation from two AA cells or a 3.3 V coin-cell battery.
Recommended
Automotive Body Electronics (Non-Safety)
The PIC16LC57C-04/P serves in non-safety automotive body electronics such as interior lighting controllers, seat-position memories, mirror-adjustment modules, and accessory timers, where its 20 I/O pins drive MOSFET gate drivers and read switch positions. The watchdog timer handles electrical-noise-induced code lockups common in automotive environments, and the wide operating voltage tolerates 12 V battery transients. For safety-critical systems, designers should select AEC-Q100-qualified parts rather than this commercial-grade MCU, but for body-comfort applications the part is well-suited.
Recommended
Test and Measurement Hand-Held Instruments
The PIC16LC57C-04/P fits portable hand-held test instruments such as digital multimeters, cable testers, and continuity checkers because its low-power LC process variant and SLEEP mode extend battery life across thousands of measurement cycles. The 20 I/O lines drive LCD segments or LED bar graphs, scan mode-selection switches, and read measurement-front-end signals from op-amp circuits. The 3 KB EPROM stores calibration constants, range-selection logic, and auto-power-off routines, and the 4 MHz clock delivers consistent display-refresh timing across battery voltage droops.
Recommended
LED Lighting Controllers
The PIC16LC57C-04/P drives LED lighting controllers for decorative strips, architectural lighting, and signage, where its 20 I/O pins source up to 20 mA per pin to drive LED arrays directly or through low-side MOSFET switches. The 4 MHz clock generates accurate PWM dimming via the 8-bit timer, and the 3 KB EPROM stores pattern sequences, color-mixing tables, and DMX-style addressing for entertainment-lighting fixtures. The wide 3 V to 6.25 V supply range accommodates both 5 V USB-powered and 12 V LED-strip installations.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16LC57C-04/P — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16C57C-04/P | PIC16LC57C-04I/P | PIC16LC57C-04/SP | PIC16LC57C-04I/SP | PIC16C57C-04I/P | PIC16F57-I/P |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Package | 28-pin windowed CERDIP (P) | 28-pin PDIP - same | 28-pin PDIP - same | 28-pin SPDIP - same pin count, skinnier body | 28-pin SPDIP - same | 28-pin PDIP - same | 28-pin PDIP - same |
| Program Memory Type | EPROM (OTP, UV-erasable) | EPROM (OTP) | EPROM (OTP, UV-erasable) | EPROM (OTP) | EPROM (OTP) | EPROM (OTP) | Flash (in-circuit reprogrammable) |
| Program Memory Size | 3 KB (2K x 12) | 3 KB (2K x 12) | 3 KB (2K x 12) | 3 KB (2K x 12) | 3 KB (2K x 12) | 3 KB (2K x 12) | 3 KB |
| I/O Pins | 20 | 20 | 20 | 20 | 20 | 20 | 20 |
| Operating Temperature | 0 C to +70 C | 0 C to +70 C | -40 C to +85 C (industrial) | 0 C to +70 C | -40 C to +85 C (industrial) | -40 C to +85 C (industrial) | -40 C to +85 C (industrial) |
| CMOS Process Variant | Low-power (LC) | Standard (C) | Low-power (LC) | Low-power (LC) | Low-power (LC) | Standard (C) | Flash process (F) |
Key Differentiators
- Low-power CMOS process variant for battery applications (vs PIC16C57C-04/P)
- UV-erasable windowed CERDIP for prototype development (vs PIC16LC57C-04/SP)
- 20 I/O pins with 20 mA source/sink per pin (vs PIC16F57-I/P)
Design Notes
Place a 0.1 uF ceramic decoupling capacitor within 5 mm of the VDD pin (pin 26) with a short, direct ground return to the VSS pin. For designs with significant digital switching noise, add a bulk 1-10 uF tantalum or electrolytic capacitor on the same supply rail. The LC process variant's low quiescent current in SLEEP mode (typically microampere-level) requires careful PCB layout to avoid leakage paths through adjacent traces.
The windowed CERDIP package has a quartz window on top for UV EPROM erasure. Design PCB layouts to provide clearance above the package for UV lamp access during development cycles. Avoid placing tall components, heat sinks, or mechanical structures directly above the device. For production designs, migrate to the SPDIP or PDIP package variants (no window) once firmware is finalized.
Do not exceed the absolute maximum supply voltage of 7 V on VDD. The MCLR pin (pin 4) requires a proper reset network - typically a 10 kohm pull-up to VDD and a 0.1 uF capacitor to ground for power-on-reset delay. Failure to configure the watchdog timer correctly can cause unintended resets; enable the WDT only when required and budget for its ~18 ms typical timeout. The 12-bit PC wraps within the 2K program-memory space, so CALL/RETURN nesting beyond 2 levels is not supported - use computed jumps for deep subroutines.
Compliance Information
Compliance data not explicitly stated in the verified web sources for PIC16LC57C-04/P. CERDIP packages are typically non-RoHS due to lead-containing ceramic construction; production designs should consider plastic-package variants for RoHS compliance. AEC-Q100 not qualified - commercial grade only.
